Long head of the biceps tendon pathology: Arthroscopic biotenodesis vs tenotomy

Introduction: Disorders of the long head of the biceps tendon can exist in conjunction with other shoulder pathologies. It was proposed as a cause of pain in patients with rotator cuff injury. A detailed history, thorough physical examination and radiographical evaluation are necessary for a correct diagnosis. The aim of our study was to describe the surgical technique and analyze the results obtained in patients based on the same. Materials and Methods: Were included in this retrospective study 70 patients who had lesions in the long head of the biceps tendon, diagnosed with MRI treated at our institution with arthroscopic biotenodesis technique of the tendon with interference screw in the lower portion of the bicipital groove since January 2009 to January 2012. Functional clinical evaluation was performed with the appropriate scores for the disease (ASES, Rowe, Simple Shoulder Test, Constant Murley). Pain was evaluated using Visual Analog Scale. Results: The Rowe score was 86 points, 81 points ASES, SST 9 points, Constant and Murley 87 points. The VAS showed poor post surgical pain. At the time, no associated deformity similar to a Popeye sign was observed. Discussion: The decision to perform a surgical management of the long head of the biceps pathology depends on the clinical presentation, thorough physical examination with specific test, the presence of associated pathologies and failure of nonsurgical treatment.